Pool Safety Tips and Tricks

by | Apr 3, 2017 | Pool Information, Pool Tips

Everyone who has ever been swimming at a public pool has been told loudly, “no running!” or “don’t run around the pool!” But as kids, we all did it anyway because it was fun to chase our friends. Being a homeowner with children in your own backyard is a little different. Running around the pool still is a warning we need to tell our children, but it’s more for their safety rather than a legal liability. In this blog, EAC will discuss pool safety tips and tricks for you and your family. As a bonus tip, we’ll take some of the pool to your home for something you may not know!

The water itself is something to be checked regularly. Depending on what kind of pool you have, chemicals used will be different. It’s important to know exactly which chemicals are necessary for your pool and maintain your pool regularly.

Here in Florida, it’s very common to see pools in backyards that are enclosed in an overhead screened-in lanai. If you don’t have an overhead lanai, be sure you have a cover in case of inclement weather. As added protection, a fence around your property will keep your pool safe and keep wildlife and possible wandering children safe from your pool. If you do have a fence, be sure to not prop it open which could allow anyone to enter your pool area and put themselves or you in danger. This includes pets as well! Ask your dogs if they are comfortable with swimming and can doggy paddle around your pool. Nevertheless, check on them as often as you would you own child around the pool.

One tip that is often overlooked is personal safety. If you host pool parties or don’t, if you have poor health or great health, it’s still a smart idea that at least one parent, homeowner or person present at all times knows CPR. Have a first aid kit poolside to include more than a bandaid. We do recommend multiple sizes of bandaids as well as antibiotic ointment, gauze pads, antiseptic towelettes, disposable gloves, a cold compress, scissors, burn gel and insect relief gel. Depending on how often your pool is in use, an AED would be worth looking into as well. If tragedy strikes, you are the first responder until the paramedics arrive; every second counts! Do everything in your power to keep your family safe!

Speaking of parties, pool parties Do you know who knows CPR? Is there anyone about to jump into your pool that may not know how to swim? It may be lame to ask, but it’s still smart to ask. Remember: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If an infant falls into the water unsupervised, they won’t splash to alarm anyone something is wrong. As awful as it sounds, an infant drowning is silent. Be observant at all times. If you’re not outside around the pool area, be sure someone is observing infants and children at all times.

When it comes to pool toys, break them out when the party time. Once it’s over, bring everything out of the water to dry on the pool deck before storing them in your shed, closet or garage. This applies to everyone and, for Floridians especially, with the abundant insects and humidity. Mold and bacteria buildup is more likely to happen which could present health issues to those in the pool. Wipe dry or air dry your toys before storing them to prevent bacteria growth inside the storage unit as well.

An uncommon “life hack” trick can be used for the price of a pool noodle! This tip works for little ones whose parents may be worried about them falling out of bed at night. Perhaps, the bed is high off the ground or doesn’t have sides to keep your angel safe. Purchase a full-size pool noodle and secure it on the side of the bed in question underneath all the sheets. Set it against the mattress and make the bed overtop of it. The noodle will act as a barrier to prevent children from falling out of bed!

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Erik’s Aquatic Care is always here to answer questions you may have as a current or future pool owner. Cheers!